Fox River State Trail wilderness guide
State Trail · WI

Fox River State Trail

The Fox River State Trail offers a scenic, multi-use recreational corridor following the historic Fox River in northeastern Wisconsin, perfect for hiking, biking, and winter sports enthusiasts.

State TrailApproximately 300 acres4+ Trails

Designation

State Trail

Total Wilderness Area

Approximately 300 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Fox River State Trail

The Fox River State Trail offers a scenic, multi-use recreational corridor following the historic Fox River in northeastern Wisconsin, perfect for hiking, biking, and winter sports enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Fox River State Trail spans roughly 26 miles along the Fox River from Green Bay to Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin. The trail runs through a diverse landscape of riverside woodlands, wetlands, and small communities, providing a pleasant outdoor experience year-round. Geographically, it connects the urban environment of Green Bay with the more rural surroundings of northeastern Wisconsin. The trail follows a former railroad corridor, offering relatively flat terrain suitable for people of many skill levels and ages. Ecologically, the trail corridor supports a variety of local flora and fauna, including hardwood forests, riverine habitats, waterfowl, and seasonal migratory birds. The Fox River itself is a key natural feature, attracting anglers and paddlers near adjacent access points. Historically, the trail preserves the heritage of Wisconsin's railroad era as it passes through towns with distinctive historic architecture and sites, including old railway bridges and depots. Recreation on the Fox River State Trail includes walking, jogging, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling along designated sections in winter. The trail’s relatively easy grade combined with points of scenic interest like riverside overlooks, bridges, and nearby parks make it popular among locals and visitors. Visitor appeal also comes from convenient access points in Green Bay and communities like De Pere and Wrightstown. With mileage suitable for both short outings and longer rides, this state trail offers a versatile outdoor venue that highlights Wisconsin's natural and cultural assets.

Field Guide · State Trail
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Fox River State Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Riverside views of the Fox River with scenic overlooks✦ Well-preserved railroad heritage including historic bridges✦ Accessible multi-use trail for biking, hiking, and winter snow sports✦ Connection between Green Bay’s urban setting and smaller riverside communities
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Fox River State Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Snowmobiling

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Running

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports (nearby river access)

Available in Fox River State Trail
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Fox River State Trail
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Fox River State Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permit required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Fox River State Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Green Bay, Wisconsin
⌖ 0.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay offers outdoor enthusiasts a blend of water sports, hiking, and biking with scenic riverfronts and protected wildlife areas. Winter adds snowshoeing and seasonal events, making it a versatile year-round destination.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for snowshoeing and cold-weather sports
Explore Town
Allouez, Wisconsin
⌖ 2.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Allouez, Wisconsin

Allouez offers a peaceful riverside setting with easy access to hiking, biking, kayaking, and winter sports. Ideal for visitors seeking outdoor relaxation along Wisconsin’s Fox River.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin
⌖ 3.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin

Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin offers easy river paddling, scenic biking on the Fox River State Trail, and family-friendly wildlife viewing. With parks, gentle hiking, and winter options nearby, it’s a solid base for outdoor recreation close to Green Bay.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Howard, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Howard, Wisconsin

Howard, Wisconsin offers gentle hiking, paddling along the East River, and seasonal cross-country skiing in a quiet suburban setting. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking nature close to Green Bay.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Bellevue, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellevue, Wisconsin

Bellevue, Wisconsin, offers a refreshing blend of river paddling, hiking, and mountain biking just outside Green Bay. With accessible trails and the serene Fox River, it’s a perfect spot for outdoor adventurers seeking varied and manageable terrain.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Pecatonica, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pecatonica, Wisconsin

Pecatonica, Wisconsin is a quiet rural town ideal for paddling the scenic river, easy hikes, and winter snow sports. It’s a peaceful base for travelers seeking nature away from busy tourist spots.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Fox River State Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Quarry Calm: Two Hours on Howard’s Glassy Water
ADVEXPEDITION
Howard, Wisconsin
KayakADV Bookable

Quarry Calm: Two Hours on Howard’s Glassy Water

Rent singles or tandems at Howard Duck Creek Quarry — two-hour sessions that include a life jacket and paddle; this guide explains what to expect and how to access your rental.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Two-Seat Quiet: Double Kayak Days on Suamico’s Water
ADVEXPEDITION
Suamico, Wisconsin
KayakADV Bookable

Two-Seat Quiet: Double Kayak Days on Suamico’s Water

Rent a double kayak from Suamico Paddle to glide through local waterways, watch for wildlife, and follow this guide on what to wear, what to bring, and the rental limits.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Solo on the Surface: Single Kayak Days in Suamico
ADVEXPEDITION
Suamico, Wisconsin
KayakADV Bookable

Solo on the Surface: Single Kayak Days in Suamico

Single kayak rentals from Suamico Paddle let you pick a rental length, strap on a provided life vest, and spend a refreshing day gliding across the water—this guide explains what to wear, what to bring, and the rental options to expect.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip